Individuals with hearing loss wait an average of seven years before seeking help. Patients may avoid seeking help because they feel their hearing loss isn’t pronounced enough to require treatment. When this is the case, your place as their loved one can play a significant role in nudging them toward treatment.
Paying attention to the signs of hearing loss can help you encourage your loved one to seek treatment before they begin experiencing adverse side effects. Adverse side effects can be as mild as needing others to repeat words or phrases or as severe as missing vital safety information.
Let’s take a look at a few signs of hearing loss to watch out for when caring for your loved ones.
Difficulty Understanding Speech
Struggling to understand conversations, especially in noisy environments or when multiple people are speaking, is one of the most obvious signs of hearing loss. You may notice this sign best in noisy environments. For instance, when your loved one cannot understand the specials amidst the background chatter at Big Time Diner.
Frequent Misunderstandings
When we struggle to understand speech, frequent misunderstandings arise. You may notice your loved one giving unclear answers to questions they didn’t understand or seemingly ignoring someone when spoken to. Patience is exceptionally important in these cases. While misunderstandings can be frustrating, it’s critical to practice understanding.
Turning Up the Volume
Your loved one may not notice they’ve turned the volume of their TV or radio up higher than usual. Letting your loved one know that their volume is at an uncomfortable level for others can help them notice changes in their hearing.
Withdrawal from Social Situations
When we struggle to do something we feel should come naturally, like hearing friends or family, it can seem easier to withdraw. If you notice your loved one withdrawing during conversations or skipping social events altogether, consider broaching the subject of hearing loss.
Difficulty Hearing High-Pitched Sounds
It is common for people with high-frequency hearing loss to struggle to hear high-pitched noises like children or birds chirping in the trees. You may notice your loved one has trouble understanding children as well as others with high-pitched voices.
The topic of hearing loss can be an emotional topic for many. If you notice these signs of hearing loss in your loved one, approach the subject with sensitivity. Encourage them to schedule a hearing test and show your support by offering to attend the hearing evaluation with them.
Early detection and intervention with hearing aids can significantly improve the quality of life for someone with hearing loss. To learn more about hearing loss or to schedule a hearing test, contact Premier Medical Group today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.